Winter Solstice Offering

If you're feeling a bit unsettled or restless, or are inspired by the coming light, I invite you to use this Winter Solstice to bring a bit more clarity to this next season of life. And since I've been a bit more busy/scattered than usual, I did use ChatGPT to create the following Offering for you. Full disclosure. I liked what it came up with and will be practicing it myself.

Winter Solstice Reflection Ritual

Honoring the longest night & welcoming the returning light

What You'll Need (optional)

• One candle (tea light is perfect)

• A warm drink (tea, cacao, or just water)

• A journal and pen

• A quiet space

1. Arrive (2–3 minutes)

Sit comfortably. Place your feet on the floor or cross-legged if that feels good.

Take three slow breaths, in through your nose and out through your mouth.With each exhale, imagine the day gently falling away.

Silently say (or adapt):

“I give myself permission to slow down and be present.”

2. Light the Candle — Honoring the Darkness (2 minutes)

Light your candle.

Take a moment to notice the flame against the darkness.Reflect quietly or journal:

• What has this year asked me to learn through difficulty or uncertainty?

• What part of me feels tired and deserving of rest?

No fixing. Just noticing.

3. Release (3–4 minutes)

If journaling, write a few words or sentences answering:

• What am I ready to release as this cycle closes?

• What no longer needs my energy?

When you’re done, pause. Imagine placing those things into the darkness—trusting they don’t need to follow you forward.

If it feels meaningful, gently say:

“I release what no longer serves me.”

4. Welcome the Light (3–4 minutes)

Bring your attention back to the candle.

Reflect or write:

• What do I want to nurture as the light slowly returns?

• What word, quality, or intention do I want to carry into the next season?

Choose one word or feeling (peace, steadiness, warmth, clarity, ease, etc.).

Place a hand on your heart and say:

“I welcome this intention into my life.”

5. Close with Gratitude (1–2 minutes)

Before extinguishing the candle, name one thing you’re grateful for from the past year—big or small.

Blow out the candle slowly, imagining the intention staying with you even as the flame rests.

Aftercare (optional)

• Drink your warm beverage slowly

• Wrap yourself in a blanket

• Go to bed early or take a few quiet moments without screens

This ritual is about honoring rest, not doing it “right.”

~ May this next season of life bring you the change you need to live a more fulfilling life.